PSG coach highlights Botafogo factor that Inter, Arsenal, Liverpool didn’t have

PSG faced a host of tough opponents during the 2024–25 season – from Atlético Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester City to Liverpool and Inter Milan – but the team that defended them best, according to Luis Enrique, was Botafogo. The surprise came at the Club World Cup, where the Brazilian side stunned the Champions League holders with a 1-0 victory.

Defensive display defeats European Champions

The Spanish manager praised the South American club’s tactical approach, calling it the most effective defensive display his team had encountered all year. Despite PSG’s dominance in possession, they failed to dismantle Botafogo’s low block and managed just two shots on target. “I think today Botafogo were the team that defended us best all season,” Luis Enrique said in the post-match press conference, responding to a question from AS. “They were excellent – very efficient, very solid. They had chances to break on the counter and it gave them a big boost. I think they defended really well. We’re used to playing against low blocks, but it’s never easy. Botafogo did a great job and I congratulate them.”

The defeat halted a run of six straight wins for the French champions, including their 3-0 triumph over Inter Milan in the Champions League final and a commanding debut in the Club World Cup against Atlético Madrid. Still, Enrique wasn’t entirely surprised. “It was tough from the start – and that’s normal. Playing against us gives our opponents extra motivation. We have to improve. That’s what we said at the beginning of the week, and it’s normal to run into problems.”

PSG still targeting CWC title

The manager insisted that the team would regroup. “We need to analyze what we did well and see what we can improve. No one expected this result, but our team is built to get through tough moments.”

PSG now turn their focus to the final group-stage match against Seattle Sounders on Monday, June 23 at 2:00 p.m. ET. Both PSG and Atlético sit on three points, with Botafogo leading the group on six. Only the top two go through to the knockout stage.

“If there’s one team that can turn things around, it’s ours,” said Enrique. “In terms of energy and attitude, the team was solid – but we weren’t sharp. Botafogo had chances to counter and scored a great goal through Igor Jesus, which gave them huge belief. Credit to them.”

The match was one of two surprise victories for American teams over European sides that day, sparking questions about whether the gap between the continents is closing. Enrique dismissed any talk of a growing divide. “A gap? Between Europe and South America? I don’t know where that idea comes from. Today Botafogo won, they played a great match, and I congratulate them. I don’t care who deserved it more.”

With 90 minutes left and everything still to play for, PSG know their next game is decisive. “It’s a tough competition. The next match will be key – and if we go through, so will all the ones that follow.”